By Caelia Corse and Gotlhokwang Angoma-Mzini; photography by Nina Van Sconti
You’re fit, you’re healthy – and you’ve got pimples!? What’s up?
Here’s the main reason you could be getting adult acne, and the top ways to hide it…
Q1: Fact or myth? Working out in my make-up will give me pimples.
A: Fact, sorry. “The combination of sweat and make-up can cause a build-up of excess oil,” says dermatologist Dr David Bank. “Since pores open up while sweating, we don’t want to block the skin’s natural ability to breathe by clogging it up with make-up.” Try a blemish balm (aka BB cream). This is lighter than a concealer or your usual foundation. BB creams provide coverage with added skin-care benefits like SPF and antioxidants. Try Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Actively Correcting BB SPF50 (R545). It conceals imperfections while working to correct skin discolourations – including that red glow after your superset of burpees.
Q2: Concealer over or under my foundation – can you please explain?
A: Much like the chicken and the egg… This is a tricky one. Most make-up artists agree you should use foundation first, then conceal after. That’s because if you conceal first you’ll remove most of it while applying your foundation. And when concealing use the pat-and-blend method of application, as this will ensure that the product covers where it’s supposed to. Try Dolce & Gabbana Concealer Pen (R560). It’s a three-in-one pen: just one dab will soothe and condition the skin, eliminate imperfections and illuminate tired-looking eyes. Finish with Dolce & Gabbana Perfect Reveal Lift Foundation 30ml (R1 450) to accentuate your natural glow.
Read More: Your Skin Hydration Questions Answered!
Q3: What foundation can I wear if I’ve got a slight break out?
A: When your skin is acting up and you’re feeling like a One Direction-loving tween, there is a solution. Let’s start with the don’ts: be sure to avoid anything too shine-inducing that will accentuate bumps and also anything overly matt, which can make skin look dead and flat. Rather use a mineral-based cover-up. Mineral based make-up is anti-microbial and can help prevent blemishes from forming. Plus, the compressed mineral kind can calm skin and won’t clog pores. Try MAC Mineralize Foundation SPF15 (R450).
Q4: Do I really need a primer? I MEAN, REALLY?
A: You need water, food, shelter, adidas Pure Boosts… But primer? Primer is recommended. It helps even out the skin first and smooth any imperfections. It’s best applied with your fingers, as the warmth of your skin will help the product adhere to your skin better.
Read More: 3 Reasons To Reach For A Primer
Q5: Talk me through colour correcting and why it’s important?
A: The Insta beauty goddesses have spoken! Yes, we’re talking about those vids of women with pink, green and purple paint. Each shade has a specific issue that it’s best suited to conceal. And if you struggle with several areas on your face, then understanding colour correcting concealers can be a total game changer. Try this Essence All I Need Concealer Palette (R80).
Q6: Whats the easiest way to contour?
A: Got three minutes? Pay attention. You’re going to need your normal foundation plus a colour that’s two shades deeper than your overall colour and one that’s two shades lighter. Try Master Contour V-Shape Duo Master Contour 2-in-1 Cream Stick (R170). Using your fingertips, foundation or kabuki brush, apply foundation to even out skin. With the lighter shade, highlight the middle of your forehead, bridge of your nose, under your eyes and tip of your chin. With the darker shade, apply under cheekbones and sides of your nose. Then blend with a damp beauty blender over the area of the contour colours, merging it into your base foundation.
Q7: Should I use a different foundation for day and night?
A: Think of it like changing from trainers to heels. Your more casual, daytime foundation should definitely contain SPF for added protection. Coverage-wise, keep it natural with something luminous and lightweight – like a tinted moisturiser. Evening lighting is often a lot dimmer, so a matt or full-coverage foundation is a better option. Note: if you look like a ghost in photos on a night out, it might be because you’re wearing your daytime foundation – SPF can have a ghosting effect. Try Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Wear Hydrating Foundation (R480) – it promises to make you look good in any light.
Q8: Why is everyone on Instagram talking about Baking?
A: Baking (nothing to do with biscuits) is a make-up technique term doing the rounds on social media. “You apply layers of concealer and powder, building up and finishing off with more loose powder, leaving it on to ‘cook’ and then dusting off the excess with a brush,” says Carol Mackie, MAC Cosmetics senior artist. Should you try it? “It has its place, but if you want your skin to look real, it’s not for you,” she adds
Looking for more radiance-boosting beauty tricks? This is the best Instagram filter for your teeth, eyes and skin.
